The All Progressives Congress (APC) is on the brink of a major political shake-up as several influential members, including former National Chairman Chief John Odigie-Oyegun, ex-Attorney General Abubakar Malami, and Senator Ali Ndume, prepare to leave the party. Sources indicate that at least ten former ministers from Muhammadu Buhari’s administration are planning their exit, with many eyeing a move to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) or other emerging political coalitions.
Big Names on the Defection List
A former senator from the ninth National Assembly, speaking anonymously, revealed that these key figures are only waiting for party structures in their respective states to solidify before making their departures official. Among those reportedly planning to leave are former APC National Chairman Abdullahi Adamu, ex-Senate President Ahmed Lawan, and former Minister of State for Education Emeka Nwajiuba. Additionally, former Senate President David Mark is rumored to be playing a crucial role in forming an alternative political coalition.
CPC Bloc Leads the Breakaway Movement
A senior APC chieftain in Imo State confirmed that the wave of defections is being driven by members of the Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) faction, the political base of former President Buhari. According to him, this group, which was instrumental in APC’s formation, is growing increasingly disillusioned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership and is actively planning its departure.
“The CPC bloc is leaving, and if it does, the APC will never be the same again,” he stated. “The President has mismanaged the party’s success, and it’s painful to watch the deterioration. Political parties thrive by expanding, not shrinking, but the APC appears to be doing the opposite.”
Former Governors Join the Movement
The source further disclosed that aside from Nasir El-Rufai, several former governors are also involved in the movement. “These are not lightweight politicians,” he emphasized, suggesting that the defections could significantly weaken the party’s national influence.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
As internal tensions escalate, political analysts warn that this looming defection crisis could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections. With major political figures jumping ship, President Tinubu faces a critical test in maintaining his grip on the APC.
